Cold as ice

Meaning

Emotionless or very cool in demeanor.

Usage

Used to describe detached or intimidating people.

Origin & History

Origins and dates here are approximate summaries. Many idioms have disputed or unknown origins, and not every date has been checked against a historical dictionary, so treat specific dates and stories as a starting point rather than a citation.

Ice symbolizes numbness and lack of warmth.

Romantic and drama writers since the 1800s used ice metaphors for temperament.